Les Liaisons dangereuses (Dangerous Liaisons) Guilt and Blame Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Part.Letter.Paragraph)

Quote #4

You oblige me to speak in my own defense too; for while I devote my life to worshipping you, you spend your in finding fault with me. (2.52.3)

Note the misdirection and deceit in this statement. Valmont faults Madame de Tourvel for finding fault in him. He says he devotes his time to worshipping her, and yet here he is, as he always is, critical instead of worshipful. It's confusing for an innocent, trusting person like Madame de Tourvel to be with someone like Valmont, because he's so good at turning the tables on her. And she's vulnerable, because she's a good person who doesn't want to be the cause of anyone's pain.

Quote #5

Who can have betrayed us? Whom do you suspect? Have you, perhaps, been a little indiscreet? (2.65.1)

At this stage in his life, Danceny is prone to blame everyone but himself. It wouldn't occur to him that maybe he was indiscreet. There's a sexist implication in here: women, you know, always running their mouths…

Quote #6

Dear God, how unhappy I am! And it is you who are to blame!

Cécile is finally giving Danceny a taste of his own medicine. She's reached a point where she won't submit to Danceny's attempts to induce guilt. How do you like them apples, Dan?